Are you looking for that one gift guide to rule them all? Do you have someone on your gift list who loves the great outdoors? Maybe they like camping, hiking, or just being in nature. Or maybe they’re interested in off-grid living and prepping. If so, we’ve got the perfect gift guide for you! In this blog post, we will share some of our favorite gift ideas for people who love to live off-the-grid or prep for emergencies. We’ve got something for everyone on your list, so read on to find out more. But is this really the ultimate gift guide? Okay, maybe it’s not “ultimate”, maybe there is another one out there that is even more ultimate, but it sure gives the article a nice ring to it, don’t you think?
Whether you’re shopping for the avid camper or the prepper who is always prepared for any scenario, we have some great gift ideas in this gift guide that are sure to please. For the outdoor enthusiast, consider a sturdy set of camping gear, like a high-quality tent, sleeping bag, and backpack. If they love being off-the-grid, consider gift cards for solar panels, a portable stove, or other supplies that will help them live self-sufficiently. Or if they’re prepping for an emergency situation, you can’t go wrong with tools like a multi-tool or first aid kit. No matter what type of gift you’re looking for, we’ve got something here that will suit your needs. So start shopping now and get ready to impress the outdoor lover or prepper in your life.
I’m starting the gift guide list with a few things that I already tried myself and love, but as you scroll further down you’ll find even more gift ideas that you could use for Christmas, Birthdays, or other special days, in case you need some inspiration in your thought process. If you’re going for something that I didn’t explicitly put down in the list with a maker and model name, make sure you get something with good quality. Amazon reviews and ratings usually help you to avoid products that might not last long or have other shortcomings. For some other items, you could also try them out yourself first if you’re not in a hurry. If you think it’s a good gadget or tool or kit then you give them to someone as a gift or buy a new one for them and keep the one you tested.
Getting something good for a smaller price
We tested the Jackery photovoltaic panels and battery solutions this year and for sure this would be the king of gifts to many and especially so if they are on a discount. Starting today and lasting until the 18th of December, Jackery solar solutions are up for grabs at special prices, so it would be a good moment if you read our review and got interested in this as a gift or even for yourself. The following is what our friends from Jackery told us.
“Christmas is just around the corner. As a saying goes, ‘Every time we love, every time we give, it’s Christmas’. Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year for us to gather with our loved ones. It’s also the best time when we are able to extend our love and care to our families and friends by giving and sharing. This year, Jackery ushered into its 10th anniversary. So in this momentous year in conjunction with Christmas, Jackery is taking action to show its love and care to customers and pass on the spirit of caring and giving–Bringing whopping Christmas Discounts of up to 28% off its most popular products and teaming up with some like-minded partners and influencers to conduct a special Xmas Giveaway to find 10 winners’ wishes with Jackery products, for free!”
What are some good gift ideas for outdoorsy people?
But of course, there’s more to this gift guide than just a single product. Let’s check into what else we have prepared for you.
Crank emergency radio with flashlight and charger
I tried a few of these crank emergency radios and to be honest, the cheaper ones hardly work and should maybe not be used for an emergency. I can recommend the German brand Acta Berg with their crank-for-power emergency radio that also comes with a solar panel. That one worked very well for me and I haven’t seen a better one yet. Of course, you can also get another maker for an emergency radio if these are not available for you, but make sure to check the reviews of people who already tried the product you’re looking at. The good ones usually start at around $50, but maybe you are able to get a good deal, so don’t look out too much only for the price, but beware of generic stuff that costs less and maybe doesn’t work as nicely.
Multi-tool for multi uses
My favorite multi-tool maker is Leatherman and just like a Kleenex, in many regions, the brand name has become a synonym for a multi-tool. I got a Leatherman Charge with my name on it about 15 years ago for work as an event technician and it still works like I just bought it off the shelf and I use it all the time. If I had to take only a single tool with me, I’d take that one. But of course, Leatherman has many products in their portfolio and you can also check out other brands like Victorinox (Swiss Army Knife), or SOG, which has a bit more of a military vibe to it. A good multi-tool that lasts and can be relied on, doesn’t come cheap, but I can assure you that good quality gear can last for years or even decades – and you’ll never forget how you got yours or who gave it to you.
The good old compass
We can’t miss the classics on a gift guide, can we? A good compass can prove invaluable when traveling or in an emergency, and it’s a gift that will never go out of style. A quality compass can help you orient yourself and set a course, even in the digital era. It’s surprisingly simple to use and doesn’t require any special knowledge. You just have to know the cardinal directions, and you can easily determine your location in relation to them. You could look into makers like Suunto or even rugged or military ones if you’re not sure where to start. If you’re looking for a gift that will truly stand the test of time, a quality compass is an excellent choice. Whether your loved one loves camping, hiking, or just being prepared for any emergency situation, this gift will provide them with the tools they need to stay safe and navigate their way to their destination. In our digital time, it’s sometimes nice to have something useful that doesn’t need power.
The big list in our gift guide for you
If you’re looking for serious survival gifts, consider the rule that fellow TechAcute writer Daniel Bennett just shared with me on our Discord server.
Water > Shelter > Fire > Food
Our body needs all of these things to survive and that’s the priority that you should look out for. Not everything has to be expensive either. Sometimes even a seemingly simple and inexpensive gadget can make a huge difference at that moment when we need it in the wild. I hope you enjoy the line-up but do let us know in case we forgot something you really think should be a part of this list.
Hot plate or gas cooker
For off-the-grid living, a portable stove, hot plate, or small gas cooker is a must. These are easy to use and can heat up food in an instant, no matter where you are. They’re also great for prepping meals, either at home or while camping, or on the road. You can find a range of options from different brands and price points, whether they need it for camping, backpacking, or just as a home emergency preparedness item, this gift is sure to be a hit. Also worth mentioning, is if you’re trying to cook with a wok and don’t have gas in your kitchen, a camping gas cooker is the only way to get that “wok hay”.
Power bank or solar charger
For the prepper or off-the-grid adventurer, a power bank or solar charger can be invaluable. Whether it’s for keeping your phone charged while you’re out exploring and camping or to keep your lights on if you’ve lost power at home, this gift is sure to be well-received by anyone who loves to be prepared. With a range of sizes, power outputs, and price points, you’re sure to find the perfect gift that fits your budget and needs.
First aid kit
A first aid kit is a gift that can be used by anyone, anytime. Whether it’s for a hiker or an adventurer, having this gift on hand will help ensure their safety and peace of mind when out in the wilderness. From bandages and antiseptic to painkillers and wound cleaning supplies, a good first aid kit has everything you need to deal with a range of injuries and health issues. So if you’re looking for a gift that will truly make a difference in any situation, consider a first aid kit. Whether your loved one is an avid camper, hiker, or prepper, or just likes to be prepared for the unexpected, this gift will help. Protecting people and helping people should be a focus on every gift guide in this niche.
Emergency food
For the prepper or off-the-grid adventurer, emergency food and water can be a lifesaver in an emergency. Whether it’s for surviving natural disasters like hurricanes or tornadoes, or as a way to stay stocked up in case of power outages at home, having these supplies on hand is essential for staying safe and healthy. With a range of food and water options available, you’re sure to find the perfect gift that meets your loved one’s needs. Whether they want freeze-dried meals or just extra bottled water on hand in case of an emergency, this gift is sure to be appreciated by anyone who loves being prepared for any situation.
Emergency water
I’m not going to lie, there are some emergency water kits and sets out there, but if you’re aiming for storage for emergency scenarios at home, it might be best just to stock up on bottled water and give that as a gift or part of a gift if you like. Make sure though to consider the storage capacities of the person you are giving this to. No point to give someone 50 bottles of water for storage if they are living in a small apartment. If you’re not sure what a person needs to store for emergencies you can also review our checklist for things to keep to prepare for emergencies.
Water filtration systems
This is more likely a solution for the great outdoors. If your gift recipient likes to go hiking, backpacking, camping, or even just long walks in the great outdoors, a water filtration system is a must-have. It’s essential for making sure that you have clean drinking water wherever you may be, especially when out and about. Whether they want a small portable system or something more high-tech and advanced, you’re sure to find the perfect gift that fits their needs. So if you’re looking for a gift that will help your loved one stay safe and healthy no matter where they are, consider a water filtration system.
Emergency shelter
Another gift that can help your loved one stay safe no matter where they are is an emergency shelter. Whether it’s a tent, a tarp, or something more high-tech, having an emergency shelter on hand will ensure that they can stay protected from the elements and have a place to rest if needed. This gift is perfect for hikers, campers, preppers, or anyone who likes to spend time in the great outdoors. So if you’re looking for a gift that will keep your loved one safe and comfortable no matter what Mother Nature throws their way, consider an emergency shelter.
Waterproof firestarter kit
A waterproof firestarter kit is a very useful gift for anyone who likes camping, hiking, doing outdoor activities, living off-the-grid, or being a prepper. This gift can help ensure that even in the worst conditions, warmth and shelter will be available. Firestarting kits typically contain items like tinder, lighters, waterproof matches, and flint and steel to help you quickly build a fire when you need it most. They are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry with you on all your outdoor adventures. Whether you’re exploring the wilderness or simply trying to survive a natural disaster, having a reliable source of heat can mean the difference between life and death.
Signaling and flare kits
Flare guns and signaling kits can be an essential part of gift guides for those who enjoy the outdoors or need items for emergency preparedness. In many cases, flares are used to alert people or rescue personnel of a situation and can be lifesaving in extreme circumstances. Flare guns, also known as Very pistols, come in various sizes and usually require specific types of flares. When selecting a flare gun or signaling kit, it’s important to consider the different features and options available. For example, some flare guns are specially designed for use at night, while others may only be used outdoors in daylight conditions. Additionally, you should look for kits that include multiple types of flares so that you have a variety of options in case conditions change.
Survival knife
A survival knife is an invaluable gift for anyone who enjoys camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. It can be used for a variety of tasks such as cutting rope, slicing branches, and even prying open cans or jars. A good quality survival knife should have a comfortable grip with a full tang construction and be topped off with a sharp blade made out of durable steel. If you’re looking for the ultimate gift for a prepper or someone who enjoys living off the grid, then look no further than a survival knife. These rugged tools are designed to help you take on any challenge in the great outdoors, and they make an excellent addition to any camping or hiking pack.
Break-down hatchet
This type of hatchet breaks down into smaller pieces so it’s easy to carry with you. A hatchet like that features a lightweight design and is made from durable steel, making it the perfect tool for chopping wood or clearing debris on your camping trip. It also breaks down into smaller pieces so you can easily pack it in your backpack or store it in your car. As part of our gift guide we want to suggest as well that you buy only safe products so that nobody would be harmed when using a tool like this.
Short-handled break-down trench shovel
A short-handled break-down trench shovel is perfect for them because it can be used for many different things. It can help them dig trenches or holes when they’re camping or hiking, and it can also be used as a tool to help them live off the grid. Whether they’re prepping for the end of days or just trying to get some fresh air and enjoy nature, this gift is perfect for anyone who loves camping, hiking, or doing outdoor activities. So if you’re looking for a gift that’s practical and useful, look no further than the short-handled break-down trench shovel.
Portable solar still
A solar still is a device that collects water from the air. It’s a good gift for people who like camping, hiking, or doing outdoor activities because it helps them live off the grid. It’s also a good gift for preppers because it can help them survive in case of an emergency. The solar still is a portable, lightweight device that is easy to set up. It works by collecting water from the air through a series of tubes and layers of material. The water then condenses on the inside of the tubes, where it can be collected for drinking or other uses. Ok, let’s see what else is on the gift guide.
Bug-out bag
A bug-out bag or BOB is a backpack that is, at all times, prepared for a worst-case scenario and holds everything you need to survive, in case there is the need to leave your home. You don’t necessarily need to focus on this backpack being a bug-out bag though. Just find a durable, comfortable, backpack that can hold a lot of things and has a lot of compartments. Sometimes, an “urban” backpack and not going for hiker gear can be the better choice here.
Tactical flashlight
A tactical flashlight is a high-tech flashlight that is designed to be used in emergency situations. It can withstand harsh weather, has an extremely long battery life, and produces a powerful beam that can illuminate very dark areas. This would be a great gift for someone who likes camping, hiking, or doing outdoor activities, as well as people who want to live off the grid or be preppers. Whether you’re looking for a gift for someone who prefers to hike in the wilderness or someone who likes to be prepared for any situation, a tactical flashlight is an excellent choice. Even if the person just doesn’t like the dark when going out with the dog, this can be a welcome giveaway.
Backpack
I bet you didn’t think we’d bring a backpack to our gift guide. Okay, a backpack maybe doesn’t sound like much but to everyone carrying their things around, this is as important as a good car, in absence of a car. A backpack should be robust and comfortable, fit all sorts of things, and yes, why not be also fashionable? It’s not about the gift, but rather a gift for someone who doesn’t even ask for it. It is the gift that keeps on giving and it really can make life easier. Reliable brands are for example Vaude, Dakine, and Patagonia, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be a pricey one. There are also great backpacks in a lower price range.
Throw and sleep quick setup tent
An instant tent system, or “pop-up tent” that can be set up quickly simply by throwing is an excellent gift for anyone who loves camping and outdoor activities. Unlike traditional tents, which require poles, stakes, and time to assemble, these quick-setup tents can be opened in a matter of seconds by throwing them into the air. Not only are they incredibly easy to use, but they are also lightweight, durable, and weather-resistant. Whether you’re looking for a gift for your camping buddy or someone who likes to spend time outdoors, a throw-and-sleep-quick setup tent would make a great gift. So if you’re on the lookout for gifts that are practical, durable, and fun to use, be sure to check out this awesome tent system.
Sleeping bag
This one is a must-have for every gift guide. A good sleeping bag is an essential gift for any outdoor enthusiast or prepper. Not only does it provide warmth and comfort, but the best sleeping bags are also water-resistant, durable, and lightweight. If you’re looking to gift someone with a great gift that they will love and use often, be sure to consider a high-quality sleeping bag as it is one of the most practical and useful items you can give. If you’re unsure where to start, have a look at the sleeping bags of brands like Mountain Hardwear, Marmot, The North Face, Sierra Designs, or Kelty.
Portable lantern
A portable lantern is an essential gift for any camping enthusiast or prepper. Whether is comes with a solar panel or not, it can provide light in the dark and can be used in a variety of scenarios, such as when setting up camp, cooking meals, and walking around at night. It’s important to get a lantern that has good battery life, and brightness settings and is lightweight enough to carry around. If you’re looking for the perfect gift for someone who loves camping, hiking, or being outdoors, a portable lantern would be an excellent choice.
Outdoor survival books
Not everybody is born a skillful and knowledgeable survival expert. Why not go for some education and get your loved ones something to read and learn? This way they can find out what sort of gadgets they actually need or don’t need and maybe they learn something that will even save their life later on when it counts. Survival books are always a great choice for gifts. If you think they should be portable, go for the digital version on an ebook reader or read on a smartphone.
Fishing gear
Okay, I know, fishing is a whole sport on its own, but perhaps there are some gift options in this area still. Of course, you should also be aware of local laws around fishing, and the person you give a gift to should have a license to fish if that is a requirement, but on the other hand, before I’ll starve in the wilderness I might want to have something to fish even if I didn’t have time to renew my license. If this is meant for a survivalist, focus on kits and portable fishing solutions and tackle box kits rather than high-end fishing rods and other gear.
Maps
Maybe this is nothing you’d expect to see on a gift guide for outdoor fans. So simple and so useful. A good set of local maps from the area can be super useful when you don’t have a smartphone to load up your Google Maps or Komoot app. Especially in an emergency and when you’re planning to make do without electricity, this is a luxury though an inexpensive one.
Small drone for surveying
When you’re looking for a more techie way of understanding where you are and where you shouldn’t go, a small drone with a camera that connects to your smartphone can be handy. Of course, the size and portability are paramount here, but it can help, even if it’s just a tiny one.
Binoculars or monoculars for scouting terrain or spotting wildlife
If you gift your loved one a high-end and full-featured binocular or monocular, they will be able to see a lot more from the back of their horse, on top of a mountain, or from whatever spot they are in. This can be really important if they need to keep an eye out for any dangers that could potentially come their way or just want to explore the terrain a bit further. To gift your loved ones the right gear, be sure to do your research and carefully consider their needs and preferences before making a purchase. With these gift ideas in mind, you’re sure to find something that is perfect for any outdoor lover on your gift list.
Waterproof shoes or boots for hiking or camping
Did you ever have wet feet in your shoes? That can be annoying for sure but if you have cold and wet feet for a prolonged amount of time and can’t just go home and change, this is beyond a nuisance. Good shoes are imperative for being outside and staying healthy. So gift the gift of dry feet and a good pair of waterproof hiking or camping shoes, especially if your gift recipient already has a set they love and want to use on their next adventure. Just make sure you get the right size or get several sizes and let them try them before you return the ones that aren’t fitting well.
Personal locator beacons or GPS gadgets
If your gift recipient is an avid adventurer, a personal locator beacon or GPS device will make them much easier to find and help keep them safe if they are lost. Whether they’re out in the wilderness or traveling to remote areas, these gadgets can save their lives in case of an emergency. When you’re browsing beacons and GPS devices, make sure you don’t accidentally buy a set for dogs or cats, because pet GPS trackers are also useful and fine gifts, just not for this particular gift guide list.
Camping hammock
For the gift recipient that loves to sleep under the stars, a camping hammock can be a great gift option. Not only do they provide a comfortable place to sleep outdoors and protect you from bugs, but they also take up very little space in your pack. If you’re shopping for one, just make sure it is made with durable materials and is rated for outdoor use. Whatever gift you choose to give, just make sure it is something that your gift recipient will love and get plenty of use out of. Whether they’re an avid outdoors person or new to the hobby, there is something here to suit their needs and interests. Hammocks can also be nice for your garden in case you have a tree or something else to set it up with, just saying.
Small but useful pieces of gear
The gift guide could go on and on and on but we need to save some goodies for the update next year as well. Small but useful pieces of gear can make a huge difference in any outdoors person’s experience. For example, a reel of high tensile small gauge wire can be used for repairs, hanging stores, and shelters, or even creating makeshift bridges across rivers. Such a wire is strong and durable enough to handle heavy loads while remaining lightweight and compact enough to fit in a small pack. Other useful gift ideas for the outdoors person on your list could include Paracord rope, many high load-bearing climbers’ carabiners, a signal mirror or an emergency whistle, a compact first aid kit to handle minor injuries or a reliable headlamp that can help them see in dark conditions and work long into the night.
Closing thoughts for our gift guide
Did you enjoy our gift guide? With so many great gift ideas out there, it’s easy to find the perfect gift for any outdoor enthusiast. Thanks also to all from the TechAcute team, who added their favorites to the list as well. Whether they’re into hiking, camping, backpacking, climbing, or all of the above, there is something out there to suit their needs and make their adventures more fun and enjoyable. So be sure to check out these gift ideas from our gift guide and start shopping today for the right things for the people you care about.
If you read everything in our gift guide and still need more ideas, you can watch the video below, in which Morgan Rogue, from the Rogue Preparedness YouTube channel, presents her top 20 prepper gift ideas. They certainly have some good picks as well, so have a look and subscribe if you like what they do there.
YouTube: Top 20 Prepper Gift Ideas! – What are your preparedness gift ideas?
Photo credit: The feature image is symbolic and has been done by Błażej Łyjak. The ad graphic is owned by Jackery. The crank radio photo has been taken by Dave Willman. The photo of the multitool has been prepared by Konstantin Yolshin. The product shot of the compass has been created by Kuzmafoto.
